Documents to Claim Back Overcharged Rent in Sweden
As a tenant in Sweden you can claim back rent that was paid incorrectly or overcharged. This guide explains which documents strengthen your claim — for example the lease agreement, receipts, bank statements, written communication with the landlord and photos showing the condition of the home. You will also get steps for how to document payments, send a formal complaint and, if needed, apply to the Rent Tribunal for review. We describe what the law says about rental terms and which authorities can assist in the process in Sweden. The goal is to give clear, practical advice so you can claim back money in an orderly and secure way.
What you need to claim back rent
- The lease agreement showing the agreed rent.
- Receipts or bank statements showing payment of rents and amounts.
- Written communication with the landlord, for example email or SMS.
- Any forms or applications you have already sent to authorities or the landlord.
- Photographic documentation if the issue concerns the condition of the home or incorrect charges.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of getting money back.
When and how to contact the landlord
Always start by contacting the landlord in writing. Describe clearly what is wrong, attach copies of receipts and state the amount you demand back. Set a reasonable deadline for a response and keep proof that you sent the complaint.
- Write a formal complaint and request a refund in writing.
- Set a clear deadline, for example 14 days, for a response.
- Keep proof that you sent the complaint and any replies.
Always keep copies of everything you send to the landlord.
The process at the Rent Tribunal
If you do not reach agreement with the landlord you can apply for review by the Rent Tribunal. The review is often based on what follows from the Swedish Code of Land Law (Jordabalken, Chapter 12) and your submitted documents. If the Rent Tribunal decides in your favour but the landlord does not pay, the Swedish Enforcement Authority can be used for enforcement.
How to
- Gather all documentation: lease, receipts, bank statements and all correspondence.
- Send a formal complaint to the landlord and request a refund in writing.
- Wait for the stated deadline and keep all replies and delivery receipts.
- If there is no result, apply to the Rent Tribunal with copies of your documents.
- If a decision orders repayment, use the Enforcement Authority for execution if the landlord does not pay.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I get back rent paid in excess?
- Yes. If you can show you paid more than agreed or were incorrectly charged, you can request a refund and have the case reviewed by the Rent Tribunal.
- Which documents are most important?
- The lease, receipts or bank statements, written communication with the landlord and photos or other evidence that support your claim.
- How long does a review take?
- Times vary depending on the complexity of the case; expect several weeks up to several months in some cases.
Help and support / Resources
- Rent Tribunal (applications and information) - domstol.se
- Jordabalk (Chapter 12) - riksdagen.se
- Enforcement Authority - kronofogden.se
